Updated
Updated · The Associated Press · Jun 29
Thai Airways Employee Charged Over 1kg Heroin Import Worth A$500,000 in Melbourne
Updated
Updated · The Associated Press · Jun 29

Thai Airways Employee Charged Over 1kg Heroin Import Worth A$500,000 in Melbourne

3 articles · Updated · The Associated Press · Jun 29

Summary

  • Australian Federal Police charged a 26-year-old Thai airline employee after allegedly finding more than 1 kilogram of heroin when she arrived on duty on an international flight to Melbourne on Thursday.
  • Twelve tote bags triggered suspicion during baggage screening, and X-rays plus further checks found white powder hidden in the bag linings; an initial test returned a positive result for heroin.
  • Police said the drugs had a street value of about A$500,000, and the woman faces importing and possession charges that carry a maximum 25-year prison sentence; she is due in a Melbourne court in September.
  • Thai Airways said Monday that the detained worker is one of its employees, that it is cooperating with authorities, and that it will take decisive action if misconduct is confirmed while ensuring her basic legal rights.

Insights

With advanced airport screening, how did a flight attendant nearly smuggle A$500,000 of heroin into Australia?
Beyond one arrest, how is 'Taskforce Storm' dismantling the crime network that used a flight attendant as a mule?